A crane hoists a container at Port Reitz Station on the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Mombasa ON July 9, 2026. [AFP]
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) have agreed to fast-track the efficient clearance of cargo at the Mombasa Port amid concerns about congestion.
To enhance operational efficiency, the two agencies said they would harmonise staff shifts to ensure continuous gate operations and implement 24/7 operations at the Port of Mombasa.
Recognising increasing cargo volumes and the need to preserve critical port space, the meeting explored ways to optimally use other facilities to decongest the Port of Mombasa, including Inland Container Depots and Container Freight Stations, both in Nairobi and Mombasa, as an alternative.
Mombasa port usually gets congested, particularly with containerised cargo, in the last quarter of the year.
KRA Commissioner General Adan Mohammed said sustained collaboration between government agencies and the private sector is critical in positioning the port as a world-class logistics hub.
He termed it a catalyst for Kenya's economic growth. "The success of our port depends on our ability to work together. Our objective is to create a seamless, predictable and efficient cargo clearance environment that supports business growth while protecting the country's revenue.
“Through continuous engagement with our stakeholders, we are removing bottlenecks, embracing technology, and strengthening compliance to create a level playing field for all traders," he stated.